PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas - The energy was high and the tone was set as the Prairie View A&M University volleyball team officially opened preseason practice on Thursday under the direction of new head coach Dottie Hampton. With a fresh approach and a focus on fundamentals, the Lady Panthers began their journey toward the 2025 season with a strong, two-session day filled with team bonding, skill development, and defensive strategy.

"The first day of practice was really productive," said Coach Hampton. "We did a lot of skill building and passing during the morning, and this evening we worked on our defensive skills—getting them acclimated and recognizing what kind of defense we are playing and why we are running that particular defense. We did a lot of team-oriented things and we had a lot of fun."

The Lady Panthers, returning a solid core of experience alongside new talent, spent the day getting back into rhythm while laying the foundation for their playing identity. Hampton, who brings a wealth of coaching experience and energy to the program, emphasized both technical execution and team chemistry during Day One.

With the season opener just weeks away, each practice session is critical in preparing the team for the competitive schedule ahead, including their first match up in the Montana Tournament on August 29.

Fans can follow PVAMU Volleyball throughout preseason and the 2025 campaign on pvpanthers.com and on the program's official social media channels.